Sunderland AFC to offer insight into the business of football

Sunderland AFC is to offer a unique insight into what it takes to run a football club next month.

Taking place as part of Sunderland Business Festival – a celebration of the dynamic businesses operating in Sunderland – Sporting Director Kristjaan Speakman and Chief Operating Officer Steve Davison will be hosting a talk-in at the Stadium of Light on Thursday, October 13.

The event, ‘The Business of Football’, will provide the opportunity for attendees to hear what it takes to run a football club and how solid foundations are the key to success both on and off the pitch.

Speaking about the event, Mr Davison said: “Much has changed at the football club over the last year, in particular our promotion to the Championship, and we also recognise that the business of football is evolving all of the time. We will be sharing more about our current plans, but will also provide insight into longer term changes, as well as discussing how our club fits within the ambitious plans for the city. We look forward to sharing our insights and will welcome questions from attendees.”

Sunderland Business Festival ran for the first-time last year with the aim of inspiring enterprises from across the region, with a host of engaging speeches and sessions from high-profile business leaders.

The action-packed programme this year will include a Jobs Fair and Tech Talent event showing digital careers and training, as well as expert presentations, panel discussions, ‘on the sofa’ discussions with industry leaders and a meet the buyer event.

“It’s great to see the Sunderland Business Festival return for a second year. As a football club that’s deeply engrained within the city, we are hugely supportive of the event and are delighted to be a part of it,” added Mr Davison.

The football club will also host the Jobs Fair and a Tech Talent event at the Stadium of Light as part of the festival, with both events taking place on 12 October, 10am – 3pm.  Spaces can be booked for businesses looking to showcase their job opportunities, but attendees looking for work can just turn up on the day.

The festival is being organised by Sunderland Business Partnership, a collective of organisations – large and small – all with an interest in the city’s development, creating opportunities for members to collaborate and grow, which in turn helps Sunderland to be a more dynamic destination for business.

Sunderland Business Festival is sponsored by Sunderland City Council, Sunderland AFC and Portfolio North.

Tickets for the event with Steve Davison and Kristjaan Speakman are £10 with all proceeds going to the Foundation of Light. Tickets can be purchased here: https://bit.ly/3LAYQqZ

For more information about the Sunderland Business Festival, visit: https://sbfestival.co.uk/